Former Bayonetta Origins Director Joins Sony\'s Housemarque

PlatinumGames Loses Key Developer to Housemarque

The departure of Abebe Tinari, director of Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon, from PlatinumGames to Housemarque, adds to the growing concerns surrounding PlatinumGames' future. This follows the high-profile exit of Hideki Kamiya, the creator of Bayonetta, in September 2023, who cited creative differences with the studio's direction. Kamiya's subsequent announcement as lead developer on Capcom's Okami sequel further fueled speculation about PlatinumGames' trajectory.

Tinari's move to Housemarque in Helsinki, Finland, was confirmed via his LinkedIn profile, where he's listed as a Lead Game Designer. This departure, alongside rumors of other key developers leaving PlatinumGames, raises significant questions about the studio's ongoing projects.

Tinari's New Role and Housemarque's Next Project

Housemarque, known for the critically acclaimed Returnal, has been developing a new, unannounced IP since its acquisition by PlayStation in 2021. Tinari's expertise is likely to contribute significantly to this project, though a release date isn't expected before 2026.

The Future of PlatinumGames

The impact of these departures on PlatinumGames remains uncertain. While the studio is celebrating Bayonetta's 15th anniversary, potentially hinting at a new installment in the series, the future of Project GG, a new IP previously led by Kamiya, is now shrouded in doubt. The studio's current direction and the timeline for its upcoming projects are subject to considerable speculation. The recent exodus of talent undoubtedly casts a shadow over PlatinumGames' immediate future.